A recent news article by China Daily journalist Zou Shuo underscores the increasing health consciousness among Chinese youth, particularly concerning blood glucose management.

Currently, the main types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes requires daily insulin and has no known cause or prevention. Type 2 diabetes, often preventable, affects how the body uses glucose and is linked to being overweight, lack of exercise, and genetics, making up the majority of all cases. Prediabetes indicates higher-than-normal blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, but it can often be reversed.

CGMS(Continuous Glucose Monitoring System), initially designed for diabetes management, has gained popularity among young people. These devices, attached to the abdomen or arm, continuously monitor blood glucose levels and connect to an app via Bluetooth, providing real-time data. On social media platforms like Douyin (China’s TikTok), videos tagged with "sugar control" have amassed 20.8 billion views, reflecting the growing interest in blood glucose management, especially among younger people. 

Youth Voices

The news article features four CGM users sharing their experiences. Liang Jing, a 32-year-old from Beijing, uses CGM to manage her blood glucose while losing weight. Wang Xu, 27, from Changsha, adjusts her diet based on CGM data to avoid blood glucose spikes. Xiao Yang, 23, a designer, uses CGM to monitor his health after weight gain. Zeng Li, a Beijing-based insulin resistance patient, expressed anxiety over fluctuating readings but stresses the importance of medical advice. These stories reflect the growing interest in blood glucose management, especially among younger users.

Market Growth Insights

The market for CGMs is expanding rapidly. According to Yi Ke, the Director of CGM Consumer Business for China of Sinocare, the sales of CGM needles increased by 63% year-on-year in the second half of 2024, with Sinocare’s sales growing by 104% during the same period (data from e-commerce platforms T-mall and JD). This surge is attributed to increased health awareness and the rising number of young people diagnosed with diabetes.

Expert Perspectives

Li Guangwei, senior doctor of the endocrinology department at China-Japan Friendship Hospital, states that CGMs are helpful for diabetic patients or those at risk, but unnecessary for healthy individuals using them for weight loss. He advises seeking professional advice if abnormalities are detected and emphasizes a balanced approach to health.

Cheng Xiaoyun, senior doctor of the endocrinology department at Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, has observed an increase in young patients with fatigue, poor sleep, and elevated blood sugar, linked to unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles. She highlights the importance of early intervention for young diabetics to prevent complications.

Ma Jinju, head of Sinocare Health’s diabetes outpatient department, notes that CGMs play a key role in early detection and management of diabetes. She stresses their importance in encouraging timely treatment but advises healthy individuals to check readings periodically rather than constantly.

The growing use of CGMs among Chinese youth reflects a broader shift toward health consciousness. While these devices offer valuable insights, experts stress the importance of a balanced lifestyle, regular exercise, and professional medical advice. As more young people prioritize their health, the demand for health monitoring technologies like CGMs is expected to continue rising.

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